About HS Code 811251
This HS code specifically covers thallium in its unwrought forms and as powders, representing the raw or minimally processed state of this highly toxic heavy metal. Thallium is a byproduct of copper, lead, and zinc refining. While its use has significantly declined due to its toxicity, it still finds niche applications in specialized electronics, such as infrared detectors, low-temperature thermometers, and some optical lenses, as well as in medical imaging (thallium stress tests) and research. Countries with advanced electronics and medical technology industries, like the USA, Japan, and European nations, are typical importers for these specialized uses. Exporters are often countries with significant base metal refining operations where thallium is recovered, such as China, Kazakhstan, and Russia. Key considerations in trade include strict regulations surrounding its handling, transport, and disposal due to its extreme toxicity, making supply chains highly controlled and specialized. The market is small and driven by specific high-tech and medical demands, not general industrial use.
Products Under This Code
Thallium metal ingots, Thallium powder, Thallium granules, Thallium pellets, Thallium slugs, Thallium flakes
Real World Examples
Hamamatsu Photonics (infrared detectors), Philips Healthcare (medical imaging isotopes), Sigma-Aldrich (research chemicals), Alfa Aesar (high-purity thallium), American Elements (thallium metal)
Common Misclassification
This code is distinct from 811252 (thallium waste and scrap) and 811259 (other wrought thallium articles), as it specifically covers the primary, unwrought forms and powders. Misclassification can occur if the material's form is not precisely identified.
Products Classified Under 8112.51
Industry
This code belongs to the Metals & Metal Products industry.
Trade Overview
Major importers for specialized applications include the USA, Japan, and Germany, with China and Kazakhstan often being key exporters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 811251?
HS code 811251 covers: Thallium and articles thereof; unwrought thallium, powders. This HS code specifically covers thallium in its unwrought forms and as powders, representing the raw or minimally processed state of this highly toxic heavy metal. Thallium is a byproduct of copper, lead, and zinc refining. While its use has significantly declined due to its toxicity, it still finds niche applications in specialized electronics, such as infrared detectors, low-temperature thermometers, and some optical lenses, as well as in medical imaging (thallium stress tests) and research. Countries with advanced electronics and medical technology industries, like the USA, Japan, and European nations, are typical importers for these specialized uses. Exporters are often countries with significant base metal refining operations where thallium is recovered, such as China, Kazakhstan, and Russia. Key considerations in trade include strict regulations surrounding its handling, transport, and disposal due to its extreme toxicity, making supply chains highly controlled and specialized. The market is small and driven by specific high-tech and medical demands, not general industrial use.
What products fall under HS code 811251?
Thallium metal ingots, Thallium powder, Thallium granules, Thallium pellets, Thallium slugs, Thallium flakes
What are common misclassifications for HS code 811251?
This code is distinct from 811252 (thallium waste and scrap) and 811259 (other wrought thallium articles), as it specifically covers the primary, unwrought forms and powders. Misclassification can occur if the material's form is not precisely identified.
How is HS code 811251 structured?
HS code 811251 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (81) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (12) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (51) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.